What's all this about?
Volkswagen is adding a new range-topping trim to the Touran MPV line-up. It's called R-Line.
Is this where the car looks like an R model, but doesn't have any performance updates?
You are correct. Essentially a styling exercise, the Touran R-Line has beefier exterior looks thanks to bespoke front and rear bumpers (the latter of these also with a chrome insert), side skirts, an R-Line specific radiator grille and 18-inch Marseille alloys. And, of course, R-Line badging.
And how about within?
The seats have microfiber side bolsters and, in the front at least, R-Line logos embossed on the backrests. Stainless steel pedals, R-Line sill protectors, black roof lining and Black Lead Grey inserts for the dash, centre console and front doors are all thrown in, while the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel gets some aluminium-effect trim and more R-Line branding.
Which engines is this specification available on?
Volkswagen will offer R-Line on the 1.4-litre TSI 150hp petrol engine and the 2.0-litre TDI unit, in either 150- or 190hp guises. The TSI can be had with either a six-speed manual (133g/km CO2, £27,740) or a seven-speed DSG (127g/km, £28,910), the 150hp TDI comes with either the same manual (117g/km, £29,210) or a six-speed DSG (126g/km, £30,510), while the 190hp Touran R-Line is a six-speed DSG only (123g/km) and costs £31,505. Fuel economy ranges from 49.6mpg for the manual TSI to 62.8mpg on the manual 2.0 TDI 150. The Touran R-Line is available to order now.
Matt Robinson - 15 Feb 2016